Nigeria seeks Cuban coaches to improve track and field performance

The Nigerian Sports Commission (NSC) is seeking to recruit at least three Cuban track and field coaches to improve the nation's athletic performance. The initiative follows dissatisfaction with the technical training provided by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), particularly in disciplines such as hurdles and long jump.

These specialists are expected to be based in Nigeria to provide consistent, hands-on training rather than temporary consultations. The primary goal is to prepare athletes for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Authorities noted that the men's national long jump record of 8.27 meters, set by Yusuf Alli in 1989, has remained unbroken for over thirty years.

The move aims to rejuvenate the AFN's technical department and may be accompanied by infrastructure improvements and increased support for female athletes.